Oklahoma Secretary of State Benjamin Lepak Arrested for Public Intoxication

Police bodycam footage released shows Oklahoma Secretary of State Benjamin Lepak’s arrest outside a McDonald’s. Officers took him into custody on suspicion of public intoxication.

Lepak was apprehended in Edmond after police responded at around 10:45 p.m. to reports of a man appearing drunk, according to an arrest affidavit. Officers found Lepak next to the drive-thru window with his vehicle parked nearby. He confirmed to officers that the vehicle was his.

The affidavit reveals that an officer noted Lepak’s slurred speech and the odor of alcohol. Lepak struggled with removing his ID from his wallet. The officer stated that Lepak’s ability to maintain a coherent thought process was compromised.

Bodycam video captures officers questioning Lepak about his evening activities and how much he drank. Lepak mentioned attending a church gathering earlier with other fathers. He disputed police claims about being unsteady on his feet.

Lepak acknowledged consuming beer, stating, “I had a beer… that’s it,” and later clarified he drank less than one full beer. However, police reported that Lepak gave contradictory statements regarding whether he drove to the McDonald’s.

Officers arrested Lepak on suspicions of public intoxication. Lepak’s spokesperson said he was waiting for his dinner and emphasized he was not given a breathalyzer test. His spokesperson stated that Lepak will address the citation through legal means.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond demanded Governor Kevin Stitt fire Lepak. Drummond criticized Lepak’s conduct based on the bodycam footage. Drummond commented that Lepak appeared thoroughly inebriated and accused him of likely lying to the police.

Drummond also criticized Stitt for appointing Lepak, suggesting the Governor should have been aware of Lepak’s past issues, noting an incident where Lepak was found unconscious in a running car. Drummond urged Stitt to take action to prevent further embarrassment to the state by removing Lepak from his position.

Stitt had appointed Lepak as Oklahoma Secretary of State in October 2025. Lepak previously served as Stitt’s general counsel and as executive director of the State Chamber Research Foundation.

This incident has renewed scrutiny over Lepak’s role and Stitt’s decision-making in official appointments.